HELP, Letter to Carnival - Destiny Improvements

[blueslily]

Hi CC members,

 

I invite you to help me with a project. However, I'm not sure if there is some rule against this or if you may find it improper.

 

Reading reviews on CC, I've become very concerned about my wedding group booking next November 2007. I've called Carnival's Guest Relations Dept and they seem to not know anything about the complaints that past guests have about the experience on Destiny. I was shocked. Well, they suggested that past guests tell them about the problems so they can address them.

 

Well, here's how you can help (if you feel comfortable). I would like to send a letter to Carnival addressing some of the concerns about the Destiny. I invite you to share your concerns with me so I can share them on your behalf.

 

Is this allowed on this site? I don't want to get anyone in trouble. No names will be attached to the letter. I just need to share feedback so Carnival can work on addressing some of the issues that seem to be shared by many past guests (e.g. dining room dress code not being enforced, children out of control in the pools, long buffet lines, food quality, embarkation process, etc.).

 

Any feedback will be appreciated.

[S.S.Oceanlover]

Hi CC members,

 

I invite you to help me with a project. However, I'm not sure if there is some rule against this or if you may find it improper.

 

Reading reviews on CC, I've become very concerned about my wedding group booking next November 2007. I've called Carnival's Guest Relations Dept and they seem to not know anything about the complaints that past guests have about the experience on Destiny. I was shocked. Well, they suggested that past guests tell them about the problems so they can address them.

 

Well, here's how you can help (if you feel comfortable). I would like to send a letter to Carnival addressing some of the concerns about the Destiny. I invite you to share your concerns with me so I can share them on your behalf.

 

Is this allowed on this site? I don't want to get anyone in trouble. No names will be attached to the letter. I just need to share feedback so Carnival can work on addressing some of the issues that seem to be shared by many past guests (e.g. dining room dress code not being enforced, children out of control in the pools, long buffet lines, food quality, embarkation process, etc.).

 

Any feedback will be appreciated.

 

 

I think that is part of their intensive 5 minute training course. Deny everything and act dumb. Beleive me they know there are problems with the Destiny.

 

Bill

 

Bill

[MrPete]

I personally think it silly to write about something I've never experienced, and then solicite others for their opinions.

 

I read two different things from two different people on the same sailings having two different experiences.

 

That's like inviting people into your house, and asking them for opinions on what they think should be fixed.

 

Guess what you're going to get?

[sunlover5]

Carnival knows, so it just seems like when they choose to do something about it. We had a couple from our church along with 8 of their family members do the Destiny over Thanksgiving. They loved every minute of it and had no problems. Only complaint was, they would love to do it again, but they won't because of dropping Aruba. They loved Aruba!! So make the most of your cruise and your wedding. You will have enough stress without worrying about the ship, etc. Look for the positives and everything will be fine!! Congratulations!!

[zqvol]

Hi CC members,

 

I invite you to help me with a project. However, I'm not sure if there is some rule against this or if you may find it improper.

 

Reading reviews on CC, I've become very concerned about my wedding group booking next November 2007. I've called Carnival's Guest Relations Dept and they seem to not know anything about the complaints that past guests have about the experience on Destiny. I was shocked. Well, they suggested that past guests tell them about the problems so they can address them.

 

Well, here's how you can help (if you feel comfortable). I would like to send a letter to Carnival addressing some of the concerns about the Destiny. I invite you to share your concerns with me so I can share them on your behalf.

 

Is this allowed on this site? I don't want to get anyone in trouble. No names will be attached to the letter. I just need to share feedback so Carnival can work on addressing some of the issues that seem to be shared by many past guests (e.g. dining room dress code not being enforced, children out of control in the pools, long buffet lines, food quality, embarkation process, etc.).

 

Any feedback will be appreciated.

If you are stressing over a perfect wedding this far ahead, I can promise you that you are going to be very disappointed.

[FuzzyMelton]

Give the girl a break!!! She asked for feedback about the ship not about her. I have read several reports about the Destiny that have caused me not to consider that ship until serious changes are made. for that matter I have chosen to sail with Princess out of San Juan instead of the Destiny. If she wants to try and correct some of the problems that have been noted about the Destiny then let her. If you don't have something to say about the condition of the ship then how about keeping your two cents to yourself.

 

Bluesilly, as for me I hope you are successful in your endeavour. Why not just scour the boards and get the information you want. It looks like you won't be successful with this post. I wish you well. I personnaly don't hvae any experiences on the Destiny, but good luck.

[Tightlinerods]

First of all congrats on your upcoming wedding...

 

Carnival will tell you they just had the Destiny in drydock and she is fine...

 

My suggestion is use the internet there are other cruise chat forums that do not seem to rake the ship over the coals... he is an excerpt from just one....

 

I have just arrived from my cruise experience and since I have read the many reviews that have been posted about this particular ship and itinerary I almost feel a responsibility to clear several issues that have been written about on this web site about the Destiny. Mostly negative. As I write this review I will point out those issues and tell you my experience about it. Hopefully it will help someone.

 

Embarkation was pretty easy. Our biggest problem was the traffic outside the terminal which was pretty rough with so many people trying to get to the terminal and some trying to get out of it. Once inside it was very easy. I read many horror stories about waiting for hours on end and problems galore but the truth is that while the line was long it moved very fast. We checked our bags in the 1st floor then went upstairs to check in. The whole thing couldn't have taken more than 20 minutes. We got to the terminal at 2:45pm, by 3:20 we were inside the ship, no fuzz, no drama. Some of our bags were already in front of our room by then but not all. Keep in mind that thousands of people are trying to get in with you and you will be fine. I don't know if the Fun Pass really speeds things up because by now almost everyone has one so the Fun Pass line is as long as the other line. Fun Pass or not, Check in was very fast.

 

Once inside, my wife and I proceeded to look around and familiarize ourselves with the ship. Here I disproved another myth about the ship: The Destiny is in great shape! I read about how the ship was so deteriorated and filthy and got scared to the point were I thought about canceling but it couldn't be further from the truth. While pristine is not a word I could use here (the ship is 10 years old after all) it is certainly in excellent condition. Not only that, I saw the staff during the entire cruise cleaning, fixing and fidgeting with every single detail: Floors, carpets, lamps, small creases on the roof... They are always cleaning something. The decoration is not "high-class" but more "relax-party-hang around" kind of thing. More like Vegas.

Good luck and do your research first....

John

[LoraJ]

What exactly is it about the Destiny that you are worried about?

 

If you are very concerned that changes won't be made, can you change to a different ship now?

 

Are the things that concern you something that can be avoided sso you can still have a good time? And at least you'll be prepared for it?

[pholter]

I've written to Carnival regarding the Destiny, but I had nothing bad to say!! :) I've had AWESOME experiences both times I've sailed her. I can't wait to spend some more time with my fun friends from Puerto Rico when I hopefully sail her again in the Fall of 2007.

 

My personal opinion is that the specific things you listed happen on every ship and the only ongoing issues that folks speak about on the Destiny are that there are cultural differences on sailings from San Juan. I LOVED THE CULTURAL DIFFERENCES and don't speak Spanish. Some tried to teach me, but I was a bit tipsy and don't remember any of it. :)

 

I'd consider spending you valuable time finding your perfect dress, reception and ceremony site, florist, band, etc. and use these boards to learn as much as you can to avoid surprises on your special week.

 

Good Luck!

[serene56]

Carnival knows about the problems. But from reading reviews the problems vary from week to week. I havent read a bad review in a few weeks so it looks like some of the problems were addressed...like the air conditioning.

 

Please note that you can call carnival with the same question many times and get different answers each time you call.

 

The Destiny is a port intensive cruise= you will be off the ship more then on it. You will have a good time no matter what. A cruise is what you make it to be. If there is a problem on the ship-- try to get it corrected by going to the people in charge.

If the problem still isnt fixed-- try something else.

[MrPete]

I have read several reports about the Destiny that have caused me not to consider that ship until serious changes are made. for that matter I have chosen to sail with Princess out of San Juan instead of the Destiny.

 

.

 

Hope you don't regret you choice! I would never alter my plans based on anything written here, unless it was overwhelming.

 

And I surely wouldn't go on an endevour to correct the "bad" things because I was coming.

[marshabear]

we sailed on the Destiny twice and had a great experience both times!!

 

as for your "issues", how do you expect them to correct long lines at the buffet???

 

there isn't alot that can be done about people not enforcing the dining room dress code.....but you will encounter this on ANY ship, not just the Destiny...i think what people need to remember is that this ship and cruise route have 3 embarkation ports and when you have people embarking in 3 different ports, they might not have their luggage yet by the dinner time and have to wear what they have on...so you might see more casual attire on this cruise....they do, however, try to have formal nights on non embarkation days....

 

i agree parents should look after their own children especially around the pools but we just made use of the adult pool -aft....they also have 2 hottubs ONLY for adults...

 

i guess my point is that you will encounter many of these things on any cruise not just Destiny or ones out of San Juan... there will always be people who "annoy" you or are "bothersome" (this happens everywhere) but anyone who worries about others' behavior or attire so much that they can't enjoy their cruise, should reconsider taking a cruise.....

 

when you have 3000 plus people on a ship, you will run into many different ideas, cultures, languages, and thoughts....

 

make your wedding a great one by concentrating on the real reason you are there- to get married!! :) all the rest will fall into place and remember, don't sweat the small stuff!! :)

 

 

Marsha

[DqALEX]

IM sure Carnival knows all about the Destiny. I see nothing wrong with writing a letter to them about your concerns. I would also if I were you think about RCCL out of San Jaun. I don't think I would cruise on the Destiny at this point in time. The only chance I want to take is at the card table in the casino.

[blueslily]

Thanks everyone! No, I'm not a bridezilla trying to save the world, I'm just trying to do what I can to have a nice wedding and vacation with family and friends.

 

I appreciate all the positive responses and well wishes.

 

I think I'll combine the suggestions of thinking positive and looking into other options if they're feasible. RCI does have a very similar cruise the same week, but prices are higher by approx. $330/person. My guests are extremely price driven (that's why I selected Carnival). I've been on the Serenade which does a very similar cruise and I love the ship. I agree, I wont' be on the ship very much, but this is not just about me.

 

Thanks again for your feedback and well wishes.

 

Happy weekend everyone!

[Tightlinerods]

Question ...

 

When you factor air fare to San Juan is it cheaper to go Destiny or a newer ship from a different prot?

 

Which port is closest to you?

 

 

John

[sharecruises]

Hi....I got lots of flack for posting similar questions regarding Destiny, for my non computer using friends who went on it last month

 

My "worry" was more about the physical problems this ship has...was it "up to the standards" of other carnival ships??? In the fall there were various reports of air conditioning problems....

 

I am happy to report *2nd hand...that my friends had NO air con problems, as floridians they like their air

 

I had also advised them...based on reports from CC...to be "proactive"< ie, request that problems be solved asap....take problems to purser, hotel manager, higher ups if needed

 

Which turned out to be good advice cause tho they had a nice time they would not sail Destiny again without changes...

 

Their problem was more the room...the room stewards ARE overworked...they simply have more rooms to clean than on other carnival ships; their room had "small stuff" from the previous tenants in drawers...a missing room service menu....food debris on the room service folder etc...

room did NOT feel "clean" compared to what they expected but it WAS corrected by talking with the steward , and also leaving message for him on phone...

 

They said dinner was ok, again the staff is overworked....

 

They did NOT like the buffet, the lines, line cutters, disorganized BUT they did take my suggestion to order room service for breakfast, and a few other times...they also ate off of the ship when in ports and reccomend that

 

yes, the ports are great and they enjoyed them. They are not especially active so they mostly shopped , took taxi tours and ate lunch in ports

 

So all in all, good....but get problems solved right away, don't wait til you are leaving the ship to complain.

[tnsail]

Question ...

 

When you factor air fare to San Juan is it cheaper to go Destiny or a newer ship from a different prot?

 

Which port is closest to you?

 

 

John

 

Hey John,

 

I don't know where blueslily is or where she is close to but I found when I booked my Destiny cruise this past fall for this May that my airfare was only $63 more per ticket from Nashville to San Juan than we paid for tickets from Nashville to Orlando.

 

I thought that was quite interesting. The time frame is most likely the reason as the flight to Orlando was booked for June in 06 while the upcoming Destiny tickets are in May.

 

It would be very hard to find a cheaper rate on any ship sailing from a US port for the same price even with airfare. Of course if you a lucky enough to be able to drive I'm sure that the savings would be substanial (spelling).

 

Blueslily, I too have some concerns about the Destiny but we are gonna go and make the best time that we can have and try to deal with what we find the very best way we can. Hope that you upcoming marriage is filled with care and bliss and you have the very best week that be had....:D

[Fancy_Goods]

Having just sailed Destiny (11/26/06) I now know first hand the so-called problems everyone is speaking of. Destiny gets a full work out each week. The ship is generally in good shape and the staff are generally fantastic. Does that mean there is not some signs of wear and tear? Of course there is, this ship is 10 years old! Also, staff being staff, some work harder, some are friendlier and some have "issues". That's just the way it is too. And when you consider that Destiny sails full each week, 60% being Puerto Rican families who do things a bit differently than U.S. Mainlanders..... Once you understand this, the Destiny experience is great! Patience, persistance and being pleasant are three things you will need to have on hand to have a good time on Destiny.

 

And boy oh boy is the staff of Destiny is VERY AWARE of these problems. Every staff person I spoke with, and believe me I talk to everyone from Steve the Cruise Director to Desio the Onboard Shopper guy, my favorite bartender and my awesome dinning room goddess...heck even Omur the Maitre d' in the Universe Dining Room knew full well everything written here. They all read Cruise Critic. And, IMO, the Destiny team is working on making the Destiny expereince better and better. There is great expectation that the new itenerary will infuse new life into a tired routine and staff was very excited about the new dinner menus.

 

A quick note on buffet lines.......there are 2 main buffet lines but for some idiotic reason, people insist on standing in one line while the other line is practically empty! In fact, people tend to stand around in lines when there is no reason to be in line! I found this over and over again. I found it to be hillarious after a while.

 

A quick note on elevators....be patient or take the stairs!

 

And regarding kids in the pool........use the ADULT pool instead! NO KIDS!

[suzicreates]

We sailed on the Destiny over the July 4th holiday and had nothing but a great time! 6 adults, 6 children and I can't even think of one complaint any of us had. We were on board to spread my mother's ashes at sea which the crew was wonderful at coordinating and even gave us the exact coordinates of where they were spread.

 

Then sadly my brothers and I had to disembark in Aruba because our father passed away at home and we needed to get back early ( I know irony is a kick in the pants and yes, it was a full circle moment for all of us) the crew was so wonderful and understanding, helping us with flights, and hotel accomodations in a place where we were unfamilar. I even recieved a credit from Carnival for the day on board that I had to miss.

 

I have nothing but good to say about the Destiny and her crew and if they can handle times of grief so well I think they would be astounding in times of love and joy like a wedding will bring, good luck!

[blueslily]

I'm coming from the Washington DC area. I have two airports to choose from. The flight difference is approx. 3 hours (FL and San Juan) and $100 - $150. However, if RCI does drop the price on the Serenade, we'll still be flying to San Juan to get on her. I've warned my guests about airfare so they should be prepared. However, they're not prepared to switch to RCI for an extra $300/person.

 

I'm still working on it. Staying positive is a huge help. And, the support from CC members is awesome as well. :)

 

Thanks again everyone!!

[DGP1111]

I personally think it silly to write about something I've never experienced, and then solicite others for their opinions.

 

I read two different things from two different people on the same sailings having two different experiences.

 

That's like inviting people into your house, and asking them for opinions on what they think should be fixed.

 

Guess what you're going to get?

 

Rather than go into a detailed diatribe that no one really wants to read, I'll just simply say that I respect you opinion, Pete, but disagree with most of it in this case.

[FuzzyMelton]

Try Princess from San Juan also, we got a great deal on the Crown Princess, somewhere in-between Carnival and RCCL prices. With a larger group you may get a better deal.

 

Good luck, God Bless

[LoraJ]

I'm coming from the Washington DC area. I have two airports to choose from. The flight difference is approx. 3 hours (FL and San Juan) and $100 - $150. However, if RCI does drop the price on the Serenade, we'll still be flying to San Juan to get on her. I've warned my guests about airfare so they should be prepared. However, they're not prepared to switch to RCI for an extra $300/person.

 

I'm still working on it. Staying positive is a huge help. And, the support from CC members is awesome as well. :)

 

Thanks again everyone!!

 

 

Honestly though, you can find the same problems on any ship. If you are traveling southern caribbean in Novemeber, unless it is Thanksgiving week, I don't know if you will have much of a problem with kids over-running the pool areas.

 

If you're with a group of people there for a happy occasion, you may not even notice those little "annoyances". I never focus on what other people are wearing at dinner. I am focused on my party. I would never let the way someone is dressed ruin my dinner. Why would that ruin your vacation?

 

I'm a bride-to-be myself and I know all of this planning can be stressful. But you do have to learn how to let minor things like those listed roll off your sleeve. I'm getting married in Vegas and have heard some bad reviews about the chapel I am getting married in. But I am set on getting married there. And based on the reviews I have read, I have prepared myself for the worst, and what I should do to handle any sort of dissaster.

[habby]

I totally understand your wanting things to be as perfect as possible for your wedding day. I know I did. Best of luck to you with that.

 

I have found reading these boards that there are some posters I feel I could "click with" in person, and whose opinion I would place more weight in. Then there are others who I never seem to be able to understand. Therefore I would not put much salt in their opinions. It's all a personal thing.

 

You have many things to consider when planning an adventure such as this, i.e., who is going, ages, where are they coming from, what have they seen and what would they like to see. There are going to be some things that will come up that you would never dream of. You're going to have to decide what is important to you, and stick with those priorities.

 

Again, I wish you best wishes with your planning.

[arf2005]

I recently wrote a letter to Carnival to express concerns regarding reviews on this board about the condition of the Victory. My main goal was to bring to their attention the large number of negative reviews that were being posted at the time. Maybe I'm too much of an optimist, but surely if they see a large number of negative reviews they look into the issues. That's just good business. I have no clue as to whether they looked into the issues or not, but I did receive a 45 day letter in which they said they would. Of course, about that same time the reviews on the Victory seemed to be much more positive!

 

Best of luck with your wedding. I'm sure with all your family and friends with you it will be a wonderful experience.